Winding Vine Wanderings

Words & a winner

2012-01-23T22:13:00.005-06:00

Oh what fun this giveaway was!

So many inspiring words:

giving, mercy, believe, fun, patience, tolerance, appreciation, faith, thankful, more, blessings, simplify, half-full, organization, inspiration, peace, journey, contentment, finish and focus.

What a wonderful world it could be if everyone focused on these words...

There were 30 comments and emails and the random number generator picked #15:

Melissa of Farm Field Primitives!

Congratulations Melissa!

I'm planning a special February giveaway to celebrate my 200+ followers. I know exactly what I want to make, I just need to find the time to make it :)

I have another piece that I have decided to part with... Stitched in 2000 and custom framed, it's a great piece that celebrates winter and Valentine's Day. It measures about 8.5 inches by 8.5 inches.

Offered at $40 plus shipping.

Feel free to email me at pgagliardi9@hotmail.com for more information.

Eventually I will get it up on Etsy.

Thank you again for sharing your "words" with me. and now for these final words:

“As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease.” ~Genesis 8:22

Blessings, Patti

This & that, A word & a giveaway

2012-01-15T17:05:00.010-06:00

"Auld Lang Syne" free design by Heartstring Samplery (in progress)

This is a busy time of year for my day career as an accountant. Lots of overtime working to close books and prepare year-end financials. Unfortunately, it cuts into my creating and crafting time. I have so many ideas floating through my head and occassionally being jotted or doodled, but little time to actually create them.

It ocurred to me that I haven't had my January giveaway yet and wanted to put that up right away. I also noticed that I somehow I hit 200 followers! I can't imagine that there are 200 people out there that want to see what I do... but somehow there is. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! It somehow validates what I create with my heart and my hands. If time cooperates, I have something special in mind to create for my February giveaway in celebration. For January, I will be giving away the two vintage heart pillows with heart keys ~ one for you and one for a friend (or feel free to keep them both lol) I will pick a winner with a random number generator on Saturday.

Sneak peek - TDIPT Mercantile February 1st offerings

Lately I've noticed many bloggers are starting the new year with a word rather than a resolution. I like that idea. Resolutions come and go, but a word you can come back to again and again during the year. I thought for a while and couldn't come up with a word, but recently one popped into my head and I knew that it was it! "Presence"! Living in the fast paced city of Chicago, I find myself constantly in motion multi-tasking as much as possible. This year, I want to be more "present" in the moment. Focusing on the person speaking, focusing on the task at hand. Not thinking about the next item on my "to do" list or what I rather be doing. I know that it won't always work, but it will be my focus and a reminder...

So for the giveaway this month, as always, either comment on this post or drop me an email at pgagliardi9@hotmail.com with "Word" in the subject line and let me know what word you would like to focus on this year. I can't wait to hear your ideas.

"I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me trustworthy, appointing me to his service. Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus."
~1 Timothy 1:12-14

Blessings, Patti

p.s. Just had to add this! A new Maggie Bonanomi design sighting in the Winter 2011 issue of BH&G Quilts & More ~ "Pocket Posy" wool bag. Congrats to Maggie! And good news for us Maggie fans ;)

Another Winter Walk in the Woods...& items for sale

2012-01-11T21:50:00.005-06:00

"A Winter Walk in the Woods Candle Mat"

I had so much fun with those trees, that I started wondering how it would look as a round candle mat. A great place to put my favorite timer battery candles :)

Tomorrow I think I will get a chance for a Winter Walk, not in the woods, but in downtown Chicago. They are forecasting our first snow. I kind of hope that they are right...

I hope to be back shortly to share an incredible swap that I was recently a part of...

Also, I wanted to mention two items that I have decided to part with. I'll be listing them on Etsy in the next few days, but feel free to email me with any questions...

"Peace on Earth" Sewing Book

You can see more photos here.

$45 plus shipping

"Sleigh Bells" make do pillow

You can see more info here.

$42 plus shipping

Blessings, Patti

2012-01-08T16:03:00.002-06:00

"A Winter Walk in the Woods"

Blessings, Patti

A Belated Happy New Year!

2012-01-04T22:05:00.008-06:00

My favorite part of the New Year? I am an old fashioned gal who carries a date book and still uses a wall calendar. The date book isn't just for my meetings, but becomes my journal for the year where I jot my thoughts and memories and tape my ticket stubs and other treasures... I now have a shelf full of 17 years of black leather date books filled with my life. The wall calendar hangs in our kitchen and is where we track the comings and goings of four busy people. There is something about a brand new calendar that seems full of possibilities! Who knows what wonders this year will hold!

The New Year also holds the first of the month update of artist offerings at TDIPT Mercantile.

Be sure to stop by and see some lovely winter, Valentine and even springtime offerings.
Thank you for your wonderful response and support his month.

I have one boy ice skater needle book still available.

The festivities continue here on Winding Vine. This Saturday we will celebrate Second Christmas, as my boys call it. This is our Christmas celebration for my side of the family with my parents coming in from out of town. Then Sunday is my husband's birthday. Time to wrap a few more presents...

Blessings, Patti

A few Christmas finishes

2011-12-28T13:20:00.004-06:00

"Merry Mistletoe"

I hope that each of you had a lovely Christmas with family and friends!

All the long preparations and the actual days go by so quickly.

As always, I have so many topics that I would like to post about, but just not enough time...

For now, I just wanted to share two final Christmas finishes.

I completed "Merry Mistletoe" on Christmas Day night after all of our guests had left (although I had not yet finished the clean up...) It's a small candle mat that I made for a small end table in our family room.

"Poinsettia Runner" by LakeView Primitives

I finished this late on 12/23, so I was able to enjoy it on the kitchen table for Christmas Eve and Day.

I just love the wool colors and textures. I was really enjoying natural decorations for Christmas this year - lots of poinsettias in different colors, mistletoe, holly and evergreen branches too. I'm thinking that I might leave them out into January...

Blessings, Patti

Christmas at Winding Vine

2011-12-23T21:37:00.003-06:00

I just posted photos of some of my Christmas decorations on the TDIPT Mercantile blog.

If you have a moment, stop by and take a peek. Several of the TDIPT artists have posted their decorations during the month and it is fun to see.

Blessings, Patti

A finish & A winner!

2011-12-20T10:19:00.003-06:00

"Sleigh Bells"

design by Country Rustic Primitives

Gosh! I feel so bad... Here I have a giveaway and then I disappear for a few days...

It's that crazy holiday time of year ~ busy at work and busy at home.

Crafting time has been slow going, but I did have one finish of the pillow above. Did you notice the little added fabric on the right? I stitched left to right and when I got to the end, I realized that when I started it very late one night I must have miscalculated the length of fabric - YIKES! So I had to "make do" and will just call it primitive lol. I appliqued a bit of leather colored wool and added some vintage jingle bells to make my piece complete.

So on with the winner...

I received 51 responses to my giveaway question (via comments and emails) and I am so excited about all of the wonderful music that was recommended! I've created a long list of music to investigate. I usually try to get CD's from the library for a trial run and to see if it is "purchase worthy", then create a wishlist of CD's to buy. Right now the library has a limit of 4 holiday CD's per person, but the day after Christmas I'm going to put my reserve list out for bunches! Lol! I'll be listening to Christmas music into February :) Thank you so much for the awesome response and all of your thoughtful recommendations ~ I truly appreciate it!

I used the random number generator and it picked #50!

Roberta of Cottonwood Lane Primitives is the winner!

Please send me your mailing address and I will ship ASAP...

not sure it will get there by Christmas, but we can try!

I'm hoping for another post or two before the holiday. I really wanted to share some of my decorations and a lovely swap that I was in this month...

And the monthly giveaways will continue in 2012 :)

Thanks again for participating!

Blessings, Patti

An obsession & a giveaway

2011-12-11T23:20:00.007-06:00

When December arrives, my iPod, CD's and radio are all tuned to holiday music all the time. Since I only listen to it for the month of December, it always seems like way to soon the time is over and it is gone again. I probably should not admit to this, but I have 612 holiday songs on my iPod. One and a half days of music without listening to the same song twice.

I love the traditional favorites - Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald and Michael Buble. I also like music of all genres from George Winston's "Holly & the Ivy" to Bare Naked Ladies & Sarah MacLachlan's "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" to Kanye West's "Christmas in Harlem".

Each year I try to find a new CD to add to my collection. Last year I found my new favorite from Beth Twist's Heartstring Samplery blog - Dave Barnes' "Very Merry Christmas". Now I am looking for a new favorite for this year and would love to hear what your favorite CD is.

Please leave a comment on this post or drop me an email at pgagliardi9@hotmail.com with your favorite song/CD and I'll enter you in my Christmas giveaway.

This giveaway includes: a $20 Winding Vine Designs giftcard for use in my Etsy shop or on my TDIPT Mercantile page, a little giftcard pouch that I knitted and felted, a prim reindeer, a sweet little star pot ornament with a little battery powered candle inside (created by my SIL Joy of Joyfully Yours) and a Blessings tag/ornament also created by Joy.

I'll draw a name next Saturday and hopefully your package will arrive before Christmas.

I can't wait to hear about your favorites!

"In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”

~Luke 1:42-45

Blessings, Patti

December arrives!

2011-12-01T04:00:00.000-06:00

December arrives and with it an update at TDIPT Mercantile! Click here to see all of the lovely holiday offerings this first of the month.

And click here to see more of my offerings.

"He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David. ³³He will reign over the house of Jacob for ever, and of his kingdom there will be no end."
~Luke 1:32-33

Blessings, Patti

Still Thankful

2011-11-27T22:36:00.009-06:00

"Cornucopia Wool Applique Mat"

design by Maggie Bonanomi

One final autumn finish before I turn my sights towards Christmas...

I wish that autumn lasted longer! I have at least three other autumn designs that were waiting in the wings.

I just have to share my good luck/blessings!

I was oh so fortunate to win not just one, but two giveaways recently!

First, I won this fabulous collection of vintage postage stamps from Joan at "Anything Goes Here" - you can see her blog here and her awesome etsy shop here. I just love her photographs! Thanks Joan! I'm thinking these will be perfect for some type of Valentine crafting...

Next I won a half yard of the most wonderful wool from Wendy at Simple Folk. Stop by her blog here. Wendy has a great online shop for your wool & crafting needs here. I'm a happy customer and won her giveaway by suggesting that she kit Maggie Bonanomi's Tropicals Under Glass from her book, "Nature's Offerings". I'll be watching for it ;)

Well, now that I am moving on to the Christmas holiday season, I've started decorating and had to share the new home I found for the Angel Wings that we made with Maggie Bonanomi at Boxwood & Berries:

I probably shouldn't admit this, but I garbage picked this incredible window from an old Victorian house down the street. I love the monochrome look :) I'll be sharing more decorations, just as soon as we get a little sunshine ~ the better for picture taking!

"Mary said, `I am the Lord's servant. Let it be as you have said.' Then the angel left her."

~Luke 1:38

Blessings, Patti

Ever Thankful

2011-11-24T10:38:00.005-06:00

"Let Us Be Truly Thankful"

Heartstring Samplery

I have so much to be thankful for...

God has blessed me with a life more beautiful than I could have ever imagined.

I'd love to make a list, but wouldn't even know where to begin and where to end.

"Bountiful Blessings"

Country Rustic Primitives

I'm thankful for all the kindred spirits that I have met through this blog and TDIPT Mercantile.

Life is so much more fun when you are sharing it!

Tuesday night was our United Methodist Women's Circle meeting. Lois served these sweet little acorns with her other treats. I was mesmerized! At 10:30 pm on my way home, I stopped at the grocery store picked up some Nutter Butter Bites, Hershey Kisses (milk & dark) and mini chocolate chips and whipped up a batch to take to Thanksgiving Dinner :)

Wishing you a Heartfelt Thanksgiving with an abundance of blessings!

"Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.
Worship the LORD with gladness;
come before him with joyful songs.
Know that the LORD is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.
For the LORD is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations."

~Psalm 100

Blessings, Patti

We interrupt Thanksgiving for...

2011-11-20T21:15:00.012-06:00

A little holiday magic!

I firmly believe in enjoying each holiday as it comes. I relish Thanksgiving for its calm family time when we truly give thanks. But I did make an exception on Saturday. It began with my sister-in-law's annual Open House Craft Show and Bake Sale.
I love to go early and help her set-up because then I get the first peek at all of her lovely creations!

She empties our her living room & dining room and creates a lovely Holiday Gift Shop.

I think it really helps give ideas on how to display her lovely work in your own home.

Of course, I came home with some lovely items that I can't quite share yet... but maybe one or two might show up in next month's giveaway :)

I couldn't stay all the way til the end, but her home was quickly emptying out with lots of happy customers leaving with bulging bags. It was on to my next festive event...

The 20th Annual Michigan Avenue Festival of Lights Parade!

Mickey Mouse & Minnie Mouse officially light all of the twinkling white lights that Michigan Avenue has become famous for.

You can watch the lights being turned on block by block.

I enjoy it because it is from the comfort and quiet of the offices where I work. I wouldn't be there if we had to stand in the throngs on the streets as I don't do very well in large crowds. Although it is fascinating to watch all the people from afar.

My youngest son and I took some friends along to share in the fun.

The local television station broadcasts from across the street (see the bright lights & white roof?)so we get to see all of the musical numbers from the back :) This is Mary Mary (in the middle) - the gospel choir and dancers were fantastic.

We now resume our Thanksgiving celebrations and will delay any further mention of Christmas until Friday :)

"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts."

Colossians 3:15-16

Blessings, Patti

A Winner & more treasures

2011-11-17T21:11:00.006-06:00

Thank you so much to the 43 people who responded to my giveaway and question as to a fair price for my original milk painted trunk! The answers ranged from $45 to $425 with an average of $200. It's rare to find a trunk like this in the Chicago area, but if/when you do I think they are going for about $300. So now would you like to know how much I spent???

Well, when I looked at the price tag I almost hyperventilated when I saw it was $35! I was trying to keep my cool, when the owner approached. She said that she really needed to find a new home for it, so she would let me have it for $10! It was all I could do not to faint on the spot!!! And my husband still thinks that I spent too much! LOL! He really doesn't get it... he loves antiques, but says it just looks like someone took some old wood in the garage and hammered it together to create a box to hold tools. And I say, Exactly! A make do!

Well, the winner of this month's give away is...

Penny of the blog, Little Pen Pen. I just love the dachshund in her blog banner :)

Be sure and check back early next month for my Christmas Give Away! I have plans for it already :)

Recently I picked up another treasure at a local Estate Sale:

Isn't this old wool tongue rug just awesome? I love the four rosebuds on either end - each stitched in a different technique. I wonder if the wools are from men's suits? And the red trim is in wonderful shape. I treasure it knowing all the hours that someone put into it. It was the last day of the estate sale, so instead of the $45 on the price tag, I purchased it for $20 :) Oh how I love a good deal!

And I'll leave you with a picture of my Thanksgiving mantle:

I made a little maple leaf garland and more candle rings. They are about a week old and starting to curl and dry... The best part is they don't need to be packed away, just mulched and recreated next year. The beautiful paper cutting on the left is by Beth Twist of Heartstring Samplery. She mentioned on her blog that she is papercutting again and I just can't wait to see!

If you will be in the Bartlett, Illinois area this weekend, my sister-in-law is having her annual craft show and bake sale. (I'm baking my mom's famous melt-in-your-mouth sugar cookies as we speak.) Just drop me a note at pgagliardi9@hotmail.com and I will send you the address and directions. The show will be on Saturday, November 19th from 12 - 3, but come early ~ she usually sells out!

"I will praise God’s name in song
and glorify him with thanksgiving."

~Psalm 69:30

Blessings, Patti

A weekend well spent...

2011-11-13T22:17:00.016-06:00

This weekend my sister and I traveled to central Illinois to visit our parents and attend not one, but four fantastic primitive shows!

First we attended Homesteaders on the Prairie where I was so fortunate to meet Ben Ashby & Heath Stiltner of FOLK magazine. I can't say enough about this exciting and innovative new magazine! They are both as kind and patient in person as they appear in the magazine. They had a sweet little booth selling the new Christmas issue (with a 2 page TDIPT Mercantile feature of which I am a part) and items from their new FOLK label private collection.
At Homesteaders, I also had the sweet pleasure of meeting Roberta of Cottonwood Lane Primitives. We've followed each others blogs and it was so special to meet such a lovely person inside and out :) I only wish that we had more time to visit. Be sure to stop by her blog to see lovely photos of the booths at the shows. I was too busy shopping and being overwhelmed with the selection to take photos lol.

It was so fun to see another familiar face! Marsha Albrecht of Kindred Spirits was a roomie of ours in the Second Story at Boxwood & Berries 2010. What a surprise to see her with a stunning booth!

We also attended the Country Spirit show, A Gathering on the Prairie show and A Rural Life show! WoW! It is amazing what you can pack in to 36 hours!

I came home with lots of goodies:

a piece of ticking, 3 pieces of coverlet, the latest issue of FOLK, a Distelfink (bird) by Woodland Primitives (FOLK private label), a framed spencerian calligraphy of two birds and a nest, 5 wonderful engraved sleigh bells, a treen ware needlecase, a notecard of Adam & Eve by Anne Childs, and do you see my treasure next to the needlecase? A lovely leather acorn by Marsha!

I also added to my collection of primitive wood boxes:

A wonderful bluish green box with original paint. The natural wooden box had it's treasure inside...

Covered in early wallpaper, it's a lap desk with lots of compartments, some hidden under panels covered in black silk. The paper is stored in the lid behind a silk covered panel.

The bottom compartment features a flowered label that I think might have been added later...

The green box also has compartments inside.

It was a weekend well spent and even more enjoyable since I spent it with my sister and parents.

Please be sure to stop by TDIPT Mercantile tonight! The 15th of the month artists are updating their offerings and the Open House giveaways are continuing...

And it isn't too late to enter my giveaway on the post below...

Blessings, Patti

A treasure & a giveaway

2011-11-08T22:04:00.010-06:00

Earlier this fall, my sister and I went to an antique sale where we both found a treasure.

When I saw this antique trunk with original blue milk paint my heart skipped a beat!

I was in love :)

I brought it home, scrubbed it inside and out and knew just where I wanted to put it.

I love the trim details and the old wrought iron handles.

My husband is an antique collector, but just doesn't get primitives. My boys really don't get it either. But they all relented and let me put it in my place of choice - in front of the couch in the family room. After a day or so they realized it needed a pad on top so they could put their feet up on it. I just happened to have a wonderful patched feedsack gifted from my sister-in-law. So I stuffed it and sewed it up. Voila!

It matches the couch and I am just loving it.

Now I have a question for you...

My husband thinks I over paid for it, so I am wondering what you think is a fair price for my trunk? Please post a comment on this post or send me an email at pgagliardi9@hotmail.com with "Trunk" in the subject line.

Next Wednesday, November 16th, I'll pick a random winner for:

This angel on antique ticking pillow.

On Friday, my sister and I are heading to central Illinois for the primitives shows! I can't wait! If I find lots of goodies, maybe I'll throw in a treasure or two with the pillow ;)

Is anyone else heading to Arthur & Arcola?

Blessings, Patti

You're invited!

2011-11-01T05:00:00.000-05:00

This month TDIPT Mercantile is celebrating our annual Holiday Open House & Giveaway!

Click here to see all of the lovely offerings this month.

And click here to see the fabulous giveaways. There are so many ways to get your name in the hat to win one of the lovely handmade prizes.

Our theme this year is "Peace on Earth"
I thought of the most peaceful images that I could to inspire my creations...

... and am sharing a few of my antique textiles in these creations.

And I didn't forget Thanksgiving... there's one final offering to celebrate my favorite holiday!

Wishing you a November filled with thankfulness.

Blessings, Patti Gagliardi

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T07:00:00.000-05:00

Wishing you a Happy Halloween.

We recently visited a pumpkin farm to select the perfect pumpkins for our jack-o-lanterns and we picked a few gourds , too.

Believe it or not, we have already had our first trick-or-treater today!

Who could resist this little hotdog? even first thing in the morning :)

Sometimes we call him our little bratwurst.

I don't think he minds ;)

Happy Halloween!

Blessings, Patti

Boxwood&Berries ~ Final Day

2011-10-29T20:50:00.012-05:00

All too soon, Boxwood & Berries 2011 was coming to an end...

Here are some of our creations drying in the sun after aging them.
Here is our group from Session 2. Unfortunately Sue had left before we had a chance to take our group photo :(

This is our wonderful group that stayed together at the Second Story - oh what a fun time we had! Me, Carla, Wendy, Linda, Nicki, and Kim.

And this is who I sat with each day as we created all of our treasures. Me, Rhonda, and my dear friend Kim. It was such a pleasure to meet Rhonda. She writes the monthly article "Small Town Stories from the Indiana Prairie" for Mercantile Gatherings magazine. The article is always the first thing I read when the magazine arrives and it always makes me smile. I find it interesting that although I grew up in Chicago instead of a small town, I can still relate so much to her stories! And she has a wonderful blog you can visit here.

What an incredible retreat it was with so many lovely memories created!

I haven't gotten any further on my Maggie Bonanomi bedcover:

Oops! Here's my little helper :)

Let's try it again:

But I was thrilled to complete my entire Stacy Nash basket & needfuls:

And here is my purchase from The Wood Shed that I forgot to share earlier:

Don't you just love how the entire corner is worn away?

And I was so blessed to receive some incredible treasures for souvenirs.

On the right is a sweet pincushion made by Carla. Can you believe that she made one for each and every person in the second session! Thank you so much Carla for your sweet generosity and thoughtfulness! And on the left is a shocking surprise! Nancy Knight from the first session made these sweet tags and pockets for the first session. She follows my blog and left me a sweet surprise in my basket! I was so overwhelmed by her thoughtfulness! Nancy, if you read this, please send me an email at pgagliardi9@hotmail.com I would so like to thank you ever so much personally off line!

Thank you so much for letting me share and relive those four precious days. Sharing and thinking about it brings all those lovely feelings back again and again! Heartfelt thanks to Maggie, Stacy, and especially to Jeanne and her staff at Country Sampler for making our crafting dreams come true!

Stay tuned... we will be updating TDIPT Mercantile late on Halloween night.

And I'll be having another giveaway here on my blog the first week of November...

Blessings, Patti

Boxwood&Berries~Day 3

2011-10-24T20:13:00.014-05:00

Day 3 has arrived! Today was filled with smaller projects, but each of them just as special!
We started with Maggie Bonanomi's Angel Wings! Maggie gave us an assortment of papers from old books and ledgers. We had such fun reading snippets from days gone by...
I thought that the wings were going to be too big for me to display and store at home. Maggie was so gracious to sketch out a smaller set of wings for me and help me to adjust the little paper feathers. I just love the finished project! Here it is:

I think that they will just stay out now until after Christmas as I love them so :) Hmmm, maybe I'll leave them out for Valentines Day as well!

Today Selma also helped us to frame sweet little photographs as ornaments. This technique was demonstrated by Blackbird Designs last year and this year we had the opportunity to make one. I'm not sharing mine right now as it has inspired thoughts of Christmas gifts... Jeanne and Selma will be doing these ornaments as a Make it Take it during Country Sampler's Christmas Open House in November. Click here to learn more.

Maggie also shared her fabulous prim ideas for holiday gift wrapping and gift giving. I loved the idea of fresh greens to cushion your gifts instead of tissue ~ a feast for the eyes and the nose!

And old mason jars! What a great way to give a gift! Maggie's ideas seem endless and are always a delight!

Who wouldn't love to open a gift like this on Christmas Day!!!

After lunch, Jeanne organized a special treat for us! Involving this beautiful basket of leaves...

Pat McCorkle, a local of the Spring Green area, came in and shared her special talent... Maple Leaf Crowns! Pat likes to create them in public places for others to enjoy, then shares them with strangers and friends alike! What a lovely way to "pass it on" and share the beauty of nature's autumn bounty!

She mentioned giving them to strangers that show an interest in what she is doing and the fun and joy of watching their surprise as she hands over a crown.

She also leaves crowns on unadorned pumpkins on doorsteps. Imagine the fun when the homeowner comes home to realize their pumpkin has been having fun ;)

She shared with us in hopes that we will keep the Maple Crowns alive and will pass it on as well...

Here is Nel wearing her new crown.

And Selma gathered a few leaves for a crown of her own! Beautiful!
I made a little candle ring out of maple leaves. And have now realized that I haven't taken a photo to share... I will definitely be sharing this idea and passing it on in the autumns to come...

*sigh*

Just one more day of Boxwood & Berries to share. Then it is time for goodbyes and the long wait for another year... Thanks for sharing my journey! Until next time...

Blessings, Patti

Boxwood&Berries~Day 2

2011-10-19T23:59:00.018-05:00

Another day in paradise!

On Day 2 we were greeted with Stacy's kit to construct our sewing basket.
In the front is Stacy's finished example. The redwork pieces in the back are the next Stacy Nash Country Sampler Club Kit that we got to take home with us! Woohoo!

Stacy had a little trunk show of her newest designs including her new Christmas patterns and her sampler commemorating her time at Notforgotten Farm. Of course all the designs went home with me ;) We had great fun putting the basket together and were surprised at Stacy's fun and easy technique.

Today on our lunch break we took a ride to the Woodshed - a sweet aptly named antique shop down a lovely scenic road from Spring Green. I forgot to take a photo of my purchase and will have to share it later...

It was such a treat to get the chance to visit with three lovely ladies from the Netherlands that attended B&B this year! Nel (stitcher extraordinaire), Liezbeth (cross stitch designer and owner of a cross stitch shop), me :), and Els (quilt designer - take a peek at her blog for more on Boxwood & Berries from her perspective!)

After class today, we took a lovely walk through the neighborhood to the incredible home of Ruth Haas! WOW! Once I walked in, I never wanted to leave! I tried to edit the number of photos to share here, but I just couldn't cut out any of these...

This lovely corner was the first thing I saw when I walked in the door. My heart was immediately taken!

Aren't these the best breadboards?!

I think that the buttery was my favorite room in the house!

Lovely views in every corner.

Isn't this the perfect vignette for a bathroom? I love each and every item :)

Ruth's house was so peaceful and calm. Lovely antiques, but absolutely liveable and wonderfully edited so that you can appreciate the beauty of each item.

*sigh*

I dragged my feet as I just didn't want to leave...

Do you see the witch's feet hanging down in the chimney?

Thank you ever so much Ruth for your kindness and generosity of opening your home to so many strangers and letting us wander each and every room!

and just think... Boxwood & Berries is only half over!

So much more yet to come...

Blessings, Patti

Boxwood & Berries~Day 1

2011-10-16T23:16:00.013-05:00

At last Day 1 arrived!

When we walked into the Schoolroom, we were immediately struck by our project for the day ~ Maggie's beautiful wool bedcover. I was a little intimidated by the piecing of the background as I am not a quilter. But I should have known ~ with Maggie's straight forward style and shortcuts we would soon be on our way...
The Schoolroom itself is always inspiring with lovely quilts, needlework and vignettes scattered about.

At each place setting was our kit displayed so sweetly in a wire laundry style basket. A perfect place to keep my project while working on it at home. Of course, I dove right in before remembering to take a photo, so I had to take one now at home.

During our lunch break a few of us took a drive to Yore in Gotham, Wisconsin.

A sweet shop with antiques and prim home decor.

We pieced the main part of our background in the afternoon and started tracing and cutting the applique pieces for the urn of flowers.

After a delicious dinner, Maggie treated us to a trunk show of all of her projects from her new book "Buttonwood Farm". What an incredible treat to see all of these works of art in person!

To hear about her inspiration and creative process was a joy and made us want to create even more!

The Buttonwood Farm bed cover was stunning!

And as incredible as everything looks in the book, it made my heart sing even more to see it in person.

After seeing all these lovelies in person, I had to run into Country Sampler and purchase the kits for Old Blue Indigo Flowers Pillow, Wool Bird Applique Pillow, and 19th Century Wool Hearth Rug. And I think most of the other ladies in the workshop did the same :) If you are interested in the Maggie kits, you can find Country Sampler by clicking here.

Also, did you know that Maggie has a pattern featured in the December 2011 issue of American Patchwork & Quilting? We had to run out and pick that up as well :)

I think we all went to sleep at the end of Day 1 with visions of wool dancing in our heads!

I hope that this gives you a glimpse at our adventure at Boxwood & Berries!

Day 2 will follow shortly...

Blessings, Patti

Boxwood & Berries~on the way

2011-10-15T17:19:00.006-05:00

I have so much to share about this incredible retreat and so many photos that I am trying to break it up into smaller posts, or it will take me forever to post and you forever to read :)

The drive from Chicago to Spring Green, Wisconsin is about 3 1/2 hours. But there are so many great stops along the way that it took me 7 hours and I still felt a bit rushed.

At one point I took a wrong turn and drove past the beautiful home pictured above. I was so glad that I turned the wrong way! The porch wraps around and the pumpkins continue around the side of the house as well. I've never seen so many pumpkins at one home!

The colors and scenery were so pretty that I drove slower than I usually do just to take it all in...

Here are the treasures that I found in my travels including the coverlet I used in the background and the two tickings under the great staved wooden bucket marked Spaulding & Frost, Fremont New Hampshire (a cooperage founded in 1874).

I was a tied up a bit with picture taking as I had a helper today... :)

Once arriving at Country Sampler, I had a bit of time to do a quick tour of the store and then it was on to dinner at the Feed Mill in Mazomanie WI. It was great fun to meet some of the women of the first session and I was so sorry to miss those that had to leave before dinner. The excitement and anticipation was building! And I was so happy to hear many of them say that Stacy's sewing basket would be simple and fun to construct, although I didn't quite believe them ;)

Well, I'll post this now and will try to get my thoughts and photos organized for Day 1!

Blessings, Patti

I'm back with a winner

2011-10-13T21:00:00.010-05:00

I'm back from an absolutely perfect time at the Boxwood & Berries retreat at Country Sampler in Spring Green Wisconsin!
The weather was gorgeous, the projects were thrilling, and every person involved was a true kindred spirit!

I can't wait to share it all with you. First I need to get caught up a bit at home and work. Then organize my thoughts and photos. I promise to be back really soon to share it all with you...

Tonight my oldest son drew the name for the winner of a copy of Prims magazine.
The winner is... Kathy H. (no blog)!
As soon as I receive your address the magazine issue will be on its way...

Thank you ever so much for all of your kind & generous comments! They mean so much to me! I wish that I had a copy to send to each of you. And for those who emailed about a possible pattern for the cross stitch pillow and leaves... it is something that is definitely on my "to do" list, just need to find the time...

Please stay tuned for a full report on Boxwood & Berries :)
and another giveaway in early November :)

Do you love these pumpkins and gourds? These photos were taken at Peck's Farm Market East in Spring Green, Wisconsin - definitely worth the trip!

Blessings, Patti

Boxwood & Berries ~ here I come...

2011-10-07T08:04:00.006-05:00

The bags are packed and loaded in the car.

It's time to head north to Boxwood & Berries at Country Sampler in Spring Green, Wisconsin.

I look forward to this in anticipation all year long...

I just can't wait for the wonderful classes with Maggie Bonanomi & Stacy Nash. My homework is done ~ just in time. Of course, I added a few tweaks... a few color substitutions... a long dog to honor our sweet Orion...

a black cat in memory of our sleek Bucky.

If you want to read about Boxwood & Berries from last year while I am gone, I had 6 long posts that start here :)

And don't forget to enter my Prims magazine giveaway in the next post down. I'll be drawing a name when I return...

Until then... Blessings, Patti

A Thrill, an Honor and a Giveaway

2011-10-03T23:33:00.009-05:00

A Thrill!

My dream has come true! I've always dreamed of having one of my creations published and now that dream has come true!

Prims magazine has published a 10 page feature on TDIPT Mercantile. The talented Karen Brady Hammontree of Brady Bears Studio has written a lovely article about TDIPT Mercantile that accompanies the 10 pages of lovely creations by TDIPT Mercantile artists.

It is such an honor to be included with such a group of talented, nuturing and supportive artists. I was so pleased to see my creation featured on the same page as Suzanne Davis of Pear Tree Primitives. In addition to being an incredible painter, Suzanne was so encouraging in helping me to take the plunge into starting a blog and originally submitting my work to TDIPT. Thank you always & forever Suzanne!

This is the piece that I submitted and was published.

Ever (adverb) 1.at any time 2.increasingly 3.used as intensifier 4.always
Ever Thankful. That’s how I feel about my many blessings.Thanksgiving Day, one day, just isn’t enough. Instead it is a constant theme of my life ~ deeply embedded and heartfelt.

To celebrate this thrill and honor, it is time for my next giveaway...

The Prims Magazine Autumn 2011 issue (a $14.99 value). Then you can have the opportunty to read the entire feature on TDIPT Mercantile and see all of the lovely primitive folk art featured in this issue.

Simply post a comment on this post or send me an email at pgagliardi9@hotmail.com with TDIPT/PRIMS in the subject line. I will draw a winner on October 12th.

Thank you so much for letting me share my excitement!

Blessings, Patti Gagliardi

Welcome October!

2011-10-01T08:38:00.002-05:00

Another new month means time for the TDIPT Mercantile Update! Be sure to stop by and see all the lovely offerings froms the TDIPT artists!

I had fun creating autumn treasures this month. You can take a peek by clicking here.

I just realized that I am at 250 posts, so I think that it is time for another giveaway! That will be in my next post, so stay tuned...

It's time for me to decorate the house for fall. Judging from my favorite blogs, I think that I am the last one to do so!

Have a lovely autumn weekend.

Blessings, Patti Gagliardi

Hello Autumn!

2011-09-26T23:05:00.003-05:00

Stay tuned...

I'm finishing up my offerings for the TDIPT Mercantile update

and will be sharing soon.

And my next giveaway will be coming up as well.

Blessings, Patti

And the winner is....

2011-09-18T23:26:00.003-05:00

The winner is Wendy of Ravenwood Whimsies!

Congratulations Wendy!

For her prize, she choose the Golden Harvest Cupboard Tuck Pillow.

Stay tuned, as there will be another giveaway in October. And I already know what it will be :) So be sure to stop by at the beginning of October to find out.

Thank you so much for participating, There were 51 participants in this giveaway and I cannot thank you enough for your kind words, the new followers, and all the kind souls that listed my giveaway on their blogs. I wish that I had the time to respond to all of you personally.

Have a wonderful week!

Blessings, Patti

can't help myself

2011-09-15T23:08:00.002-05:00

"Early Alphabet Pinkeep"

design by Stacy Nash Primitives

Country Sampler Club Kit

When I start a project with a pattern, I always intend to follow the pattern. But something happens along the way... sometimes I make it larger or smaller, sometimes I change a color, sometimes I add/delete/change a motif. I don't plan on it it just sort of... happens. I can't help myself. Somehow the urn of berries became an urn of acorns and an oak leaf. Bees appeared by the letter "B". The dog grew longer (that might have something to do with the dachshund on my lap.) A color changed. I guess it is just a part of the creative process. I love the original, that's why I decided to stitch it in the first place. It just somehow slightly morphs thru my needle... You can see the original on Country Sampler's website here.

There are a few more days to enter my latest giveaway. Click here if you would like to enter. I am hoping to add a few more items to my Etsy shop before the giveaway, so that the winner has a good selection to choose from. It's homecoming weekend at my son's high school (and my alma mater). The football game is Friday night and I figure I'll have plenty of time to draw the winner Saturday night while waiting for him to return from the dance...

Have a lovely early autumn weekend!

Blessings, Patti

Arrangement in a Pewter Dish

2011-09-10T16:44:00.002-05:00

My little pincushion has gotten a workout lately, but now I have a finish to share:

"Arrangement in a Pewter Dish"

A Country Sampler Club Kit

design by Maggie Bonanomi

I love how when you layer the flowers, they start to become a bit 3 dimensional.

And I love the wonderful subtle colors. I still need to back it, but wanted to take the pictures quick before the sun goes down...

Today our town's historical society had their annual antique flea market. I really tried to be good, but I did buy a few things:

I love the shape of the graniteware lunch pail and it has a neat lid. I thought it might be pretty as a vase with fall foliage and branches.

I collect wooden pie crimpers and couldn't pass this one up for $3. I'll have to share my collection sometime...

And I now own my second Roycroft Published book! This one dated 1920 has a neat burlap cover and is about Abe Lincoln and his mother, Nancy Hanks. It is pretty worn and well loved, but a deal at $2.

Hope you are finding fun and steadily stitching this weekend - please share what you are doing!

And be sure to click here and comment on my giveaway post!

Blessings, Patti

Hope

2011-09-08T23:21:00.003-05:00

This Sunday, September 11, 2011 is the 10th anniversary of 9/11. Our community, our church and our family will be "reclaiming the day". We will be ensuring that love will triumph over hate and that hope will triumph over fear and despair. After a solemn community-wide ecumenical service at 7:30 a.m. we will be participating in a day of service. Our family has decided to give blood, take a CPR course and volunteer at the local food bank. These are just a few of the long list of opportunities to serve on this day. I encourage you to find your own little way to "reclaim the day."

I think that I found a way to share the TDIPT Etsy treasury - see below...

And there is still time to enter my giveaway. Just comment on the next post down to be entered. Or click here.

Blessings, Patti

'TDIPT Mercantile on Etsy' by windingvinedesigns

Creations from the artists of TDIPT Mercantile

Vintage Owl Images Collage S... DigitalAntique... $3.50	Faux Grain Sack Painting Bee... peartreeprimit... $45.00
Scare the Crows Halloween Pu... DiamondkFolkAr... $225.00	Primitive Folk Art DREAM BAN... thecracklingcr... $24.00
White Lumina Pumpkin, Spider... HoneysuckleLan... $45.00	Original Soldered Dog House ... wingsandpaws $250.00
Primitive Folk Art Halloween... oldecabinprimi... $29.99	Cross Stitch Pinkeep Oh My S... threadworkprim... $28.00
Primitive Folk Art Reproduct... countrythyme $20.00	Primitive Wall Angel TDIPT NostalgicFolkA... $55.00
Hand Quilted Prairie Table M... anniebeez $48.00	Primitive Folk Art Funky Cou... mustardseed $69.99

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

TDIPT on Etsy & a Giveaway!

2011-09-03T09:10:00.006-05:00

Great news! Now in addition to updates on the TDIPT Mercantile website on the first and fifteenth of the month, the TDIPT Mercantile artists can now be found on ETSY!

Reviewing all the offerings at Etsy can be overwhelming. But now when you go to http://www.etsy.com/ you can enter TDIPT in the search box and find all the lovely creations by the TDIPT artists that you know so well. Or you can simply click on the TDIPT logo on the left to take a peek.

I tried so hard today to include the photos of a lovely treasury of TDIPT creations here on my blog, but to no avail... Click here if you would like to see.

And to celebrate, I am offering a giveaway!

The winner will be able to pick any one item from my etsy shop (click here to see)
I like for my giveaways to be open to everyone, so simply leave a comment on this post or email me at pgagliardi9@hotmail.com with "TDIPT on ETSY" in the subject line so that I know it isn't spam. I'd love to have more followers, if you are so inclined, but it isn't necessary to enter the giveaway. I will draw the winner on Saturday, September 17th.

Wishing you a relaxing Labor Day Weekend!

Blessings, Patti

Sweet September

2011-09-01T22:18:00.007-05:00

"A scent of ripeness from over a wall.

And come to leave the routine road

And look for what had made me stall.

There sure enough was an apple tree

That had eased itself of its summer load...

May something go always unharvested!

May much stay out of our stated plan,

Apples or something forgotten and left,

So smelling their sweetness would be no theft."

~excerpts from "Unharvested" byRobert Frost

Sweet September has arrived along with lovely new offerings at TDIPT Mercantile.

Be sure to click here to see all of the lovely offerings.

My offerings have all been inspired by thoughts of a visit to the apple orchard.

Wishing all of you a wonderful final summer holiday weekend.

I'm hoping for time to finish the table mat above.
Be sure to watch for my next post this weekend ~ I'll be sharing a new giveaway!

Blessings, Patti

Finish(es) & Winner(s)

2011-08-22T13:26:00.006-05:00

I apologize for the delay in posting a winner. Yesterday was our once a month stitch club. Then I needed to finish up laundry. Somehow I managed to wash and dry a full load of laundry with a deck of playing cards. Needless to say - it was not a pretty sight.

The laundry is now done and the boys are at their first day of school.

I can't thank you enough for the tremendous response to my quandry and for all the kind words! They were most appreciated! I received 59 comments and emails. And Maggie Bonanomi herself was even kind enough to weigh in in the debate :) There was a heavy response in favor of keeping the projects separate and my decision was:

to keep them separate. My decision was made once I realized that I have two more fall themed table mats waiting in the wings to be completed... :)

I recently found a few yards of this great vintage fabric at an estate sale. I thought it was perfect for backing these projects.

And this is where the pillows now live.

I had so much fun with this that I decided to giveaway all three of the pillows. The winners are:

1. Paulette D. of Canada - she chose the red dianthus pillow

2. Susan L. of PA chose the purple conflower

3. Betty of primitivebettys unfortunately didn't get to choose, but she will be receiving the sunflower pillow.

I'm thinking that this was so much fun that I should have a giveaway every month or so. It might not always be a handmade, but maybe a little antique that might need a new home or some stitching or wool supplies.

I have a fun idea for a larger giveaway for the month of September, so stay tuned...

I have one more hour until the boys get home, maybe I'll start one of those penny mats :)

Blessings & Thanks,

Patti

Seeking Opinions & a mini giveaway...

2011-08-17T20:12:00.009-05:00

"Autumn Blooms"

design by Maggie Bonanomi

My intention when working on this piece was to create a bellpull style wall hanging for my living room.

"Bittersweet Flowers"

design by Maggie Bonanomi

I used the same wools for these as well. I planned to create two pillows for the two chairs in the bay window of my living room.

When I laid them down to get ready to press them I realized...

that the three pieces fit together perfectly!

Hmmmm... should I change my mind and piece them together as a table mat for my dining room table?

Well, I have agonized over this for several days now and simply can't make a decision. So, I am seeking your opinion. Should they be a separate wall hanging and pillows? Or should they be combined as a table mat?

To entice you and to let you know that I truly value your opinion, I'm having a mini giveaway. Simply post a comment here with your opinion. Or if you are not comfortable with that, you may send me an email at pgagliardi9@hotmail.com with "My Opinion" in the subject line (so I know that they are not spam ;)

On Sunday, I will draw a name for a winner. In trying to think of a prize, I remembered that I had a few little pillows that I hadn't listed on Etsy yet. So the winner will have their choice of one of the following pillows:

(I have plans for another giveaway in the near future.)

Thanks for your help! I truly value your opinion!

"May you run and not be weary. May your heart be filled with song. And may the love of God continue to give you hope and keep you strong. And may you run and not be weary. May your life be filled with joy! And may the road you travel, always lead you home."

~"The Faith We Sing" Hymnal #2281

Blessings, Patti

This & That

2011-08-15T08:45:00.006-05:00

What a wonderful late summer weekend.

I did a bit of stitching

and hope to have a finish to share soon

I did a little antiquing - found a great bed ticking, a grater (that will be a timer candle holder), some spools for a future project, and a sweet little graniteware bowl. Somehow I have started collecting gray graniteware - I like that it is still inexpensive and I'm using the pieces for craft supplies.

All these years of gardening and I never cut the flowers to bring inside.

I'm not sure if it is because I don't think of them as "cut" flowers or if I am afraid the garden will look sparse. But I have changed my mind this year and keep cutting little mini bouquets for around the house.

Summer is wrapping up and there is a hint of autumn in the air.

I love it!

Blessings, Patti

You say it's your birthday!

2011-08-07T12:29:00.008-05:00

"Fresh Cut Daisies"

design by Primitive Gatherings

"Country Sampler Rosebud Cottage Pinkeep"

design by Stacy Nash

"You say it's your birthday
It's my birthday too, yeah
They say it's your birthday
We're gonna have a good time
I'm glad it's your birthday
Happy birthday to you. "
~The Beatles

Yes, it is my birthday. And guess who sang this song to me earlier this week?

None other than:

Sir Paul McCartney himself!
O.k., I guess that he sang it to about 40,000 other people at the same time... But I didn't mind :)

I was so lucky to get tickets for my birthday and my youngest son (a big Beatles fan) and I went to the concert together! WOW! What a concert! He played for 3 hours straight without a break or even a drink of water in 90+ degree heat! I don't know which I liked better ~ the Beatles music or the Wings music? "Live & Let Die" really blew me away!

From watching him on stage you would never guess that he is 69! His stamina and energy really kept the show flying by.

Yesterday it was back to Wrigley Field for another gift:

a Cubs WIN!

See the "W" flag on the left? That signifies a win and is what we always hope to see at the end of a game :)

Thanks for letting me share my fun and my finishes :)

"Shout to the Lord, all the earth, Let us sing
Power and majesty, praise to the King;
Mountains bow down and the seas will roar
At the sound of Your name.
I sing for joy at the work of Your hands,
Forever I'll love You, forever I'll stand,
Nothing compares to the promise I have in You."
~Chris Tomlin

Blessings, Patti

A Summer Harvest

2011-08-01T08:58:00.008-05:00

It is hard to believe that yet another month has passed and it is time once again for the TDIPT Mercantile artists to update their offerings. Please be sure to take a peek at all of their lovely creations.

My theme this month is a Bountiful Summer Harvest.

(I have two green tomatoes still available.)

These little peapods are sold, but I plan to make a few more this week. My sugar snap peas were ripe, so i picked some to eat and a few to serve as models for my newest creation :)

I have plans for the perfect velvet early autumn / back-to-school fruit for September ;)

Isn't this cross stitch design pattern lovely? Betty Dekat of primitivebettys was kind enough to share this pattern. I had so much fun searching for the perfect coordinating fabrics and trim. I always think that August & Sunflowers go together like peas & carrots...

And I couldn't resist a daisy! Of course the daisies were in full bloom when I was picking my wools. But by the time I was ready for photos, they had wilted - so I had to settle for Blackeyed Susans & white coneflowers instead.

If you have a moment, stop by my page at TDIPT Mercantile by clicking here.

Thank you so much for letting me share!

Wishing you a sunny & bountiful August 1st!

Blessings, Patti

On tour...

2011-07-30T15:07:00.005-05:00

We have just completed a whirlwind college tour of Indiana and Ohio for our oldest son.

In three days we managed to visit: Butler, Dayton, Xavier, Miami and Case Western Reserve. Wow! That was a lot of driving!

Since the four of us went, we tried to make it fun for the whole family. My boys love the food network, so we decided to try to visit a few spots that were featured. The first stop was 3 Sisters Cafe in Indianapolis - fabulous fresh food! (Of course I forgot to take any pictures.)

In Cincinnati, we stopped at Terry's Turf Club - definitely of the beaten path, but worth the drive for delicious and unusual burger combinations.

And the atmosphere was so fun!

In Cleveland, we stayed at the Glidden House - a 1910 mansion converted into a boutique hotel set right on the campus of Case Western Reserve University. What a gem it is! I hope to stay there again one day... My husband and youngest son also stopped at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame while my older son and I attended sessions at the University.

It was a fun trip. Now I must really get focused and finish my offerings for TDIPT Mercantile! I'll be back soon to share my update!

Blessings, Patti

What I have been working on...

2011-07-23T13:21:00.008-05:00

Now that you know where I have been,

I thought I would share what I have been working on...

"Sweet Summer Time" design by Jan Goos of Goos Nest

I started this piece on Memorial Day at home, worked on it during our first storm when we were without power for 2 days and finished it in Hayward Wisconsin on the 4th of July. I attached an antique ticking tag to the back ~ writing out my memories on it. When I bring it out in years to come I love reading these tags and remembering what was going on while creating it.

I just adore this piece! So perfectly designed by Jan. You can see her shop here and her blog here. The pussy willows took more time than I thought they would but were well worth the effort! I changed the blue flowers just a bit - they remind me of the cornflowers that I love so that grow on the side of the road this time of year. I know that they are weeds, but they always make me smile.

"Old Glory" design by Maggie Bonanomi

I started this piece on the 8 hour drive home from Hayward and continued working on it during the second storm when we were without power for four days. It's now framed and hanging in my dining room.

And now I'm working on this piece... started on a wonderful trip to visit my parents in central Illinois with my sister. I think the only time my sister and I didn't talk non-stop was the few hours we spent sleeping :)

I've also started some velvet vegetable pincushions for my TDIPT offerings on August 1st, but I'm not quite ready to share those yet!

It is still hot here in Chicago. Strong storms have been coming through sporadically for the past day and a half bringing much needed rain for the garden. (But also making it hard to take good photos for the blog!) I keep cringing, thinking that the power will go back out. It did go out at some point last night, but came back on before any of us woke up.

Would love to hear what you are working on! please share...

Blessings, Patti

Where I have been...

2011-07-20T21:22:00.007-05:00

I can't believe that it has been 3 weeks since I posted!

Where has the time gone...

We made our annual trek to the northwoods - near Hayward, Wisconsin.

This is the trip that really recharges my batteries.

Quality family time spent in the great outdoors...

Then the day after we came home (the day I meant to spend doing laundry and grocery shopping) another big storm came through Chicago and did this:

Over 800,000 buildings were without power including us. Luckily crews came in from all over the country. A wonderful crew from Kansas and Missouri restored our power after 4 full days without power.

Luckily power was restored just in time for this heatwave!

What more could I possibly ask for?

Please be sure to stay cool and take care of yourself during this heatwave!

I'm a bit behind in creating, but will hopefully have some finishes to share soon!

Blessings, Patti

RedWhiteBlue

2011-07-01T08:16:00.008-05:00

Is there a combination of colors that stirs the heart more than red, white & blue?

I think not!

Where has the time gone ~ half a year is over already. During the second half of the year, I need to make a conscious effort to slow down and focus on the moment. To try to make it last...

Since it is the first of the month, it is also update time at TDIPT Mercantile! I am so happy the way the pillow in the photo above turned out. The design is by fellow TDIPT artist Nan of Threadwork Primitives. The moment I saw it, Nan had inspired me and I knew that I had to stitch it right away!

I also decided to share some of my favorite antique textiles and buttons by creating this original candle mat.

Be sure to view all of the lovely offerings at TDIPT Mercantile. You can view my offerings here.

Thank you for your wonderful response to my vintage material pin disks.

And your overwhelming response to my velvet cherry emeries!

In my minds eye I can see two velvety vegetables that I hope to offer on August 1st. If you would like a sneak peek once the prototype is done, just email me at pgagliardi9@hotmail.com to join my monthly mailing list. Now the trick is to translate them from my minds eye to reality :)

Wishing you and your family a Happy 4th of July! If you can take a moment, please say a prayer for our troops both at home and overseas. I'll also be saying a prayer of thanks for the blessings of living in this wonderful country!

Blessings, Patti

Shine

2011-06-26T21:30:00.006-05:00

On Tuesday night a strong storm came through the Chicago area with 80mph winds. It was quick and fierce, knocking down trees and power lines. We lost power immediately and it stayed off for 48 hours. Traffic lights were out throughout our town and surrounding towns making travel difficult and we lost many branches from our trees. We had to throw away 4 large black garbage bags of food from our fully stocked refrigerator and freezers, but I can't complain knowing what other communities have been going through.

Thank goodness for battery powered Ott lights so I could keep on creating :) and battery powered booklights and radios came in handy too. And I found another reason to really like those battery operated timer candles :)

This weekend was perfect ~ sunny skies, nice warm temps and a steady breeze!

Life is wonderful!

"Shine, Jesus shine
Fill this land with the Father's glory
Blaze, Spirit blaze,
Set our hearts on fire
Flow, river flow
Flood the nations with grace and mercy
Send forth Your word
Lord and let there be light."
~Cliff Richard

Wishing you a week that shines!

Blessings, Patti

Sunny Summer Solstice

2011-06-21T09:53:00.003-05:00

"Prim Rose"

design by Nikyscreations

Happy Summer Solstice! Hope you are enjoying the longest day of the year!

To celebrate, I am offering a coupon for free shipping on everything in my Etsy Shop. Just use SUMMER2011 in the coupon code or if you prefer, you can email me directly at pgagliardi9@hotmail.com to purchase.

I am also offering free shipping on the items remaining in my spring cleaning sale. You can find them here. Free shipping runs now through June 28th.

Enjoy your day!

Blessings, Patti

A few finishes & fun for $5

2011-06-14T06:12:00.006-05:00

"Blessed Be"

design by Stacy Nash

"Strawberry Queen"

design by Stacy Nash

When I visited the cemetery the other day, I came upon an estate sale in an old Chicago Bungalow. I found these great little treasures there:I love the little granite ware berry pail and plan to use it for picking raspberries this year ~ for the first time ever my bushes are loaded with flowers and the beginnings of tiny berries. I'm not sure if the little pitcher/creamer is ironstone, but I just love it. Right now it is perfect with one large peony in it. Can you believe I bought all these goodies for $5? I was thrilled!

I also stopped at a little antique flea market in the center of town and found this at a booth:
The sweet lady there said that they were from her mother's sewing basket.
Another great deal at $5!

Wishing you a lovely day filled with finishes and finds :)

Blessings, Patti

In memoriam

2011-06-08T00:08:00.010-05:00

Every Memorial Day I visit the cemetery. I alternate between the two cemeteries where my grandparents are buried. This year I visited my maternal grandparents at Bohemian National Cemetery in Chicago. Founded in 1877, it is one of two Chicago cemeteries on the National Register of Historic Places.

I have been coming here as long as I can remember, then visiting great-grandparents and other relatives buried here as well. It may sound odd, but it feels like home to me...

There are so many angels and masoleums here.
I noticed on this visit that most of the angels are holding a lily facing down. I think I need to research why this is...

It is such a peaceful place.

Except for this statue:

It creeped me out as a child and it still does.

But hopefully the family found solace in it.

On Memorial Day, I also pulled the wool for my next project:

Unfortunately, after a week I still haven't gotten any farther than that.

Hopefully I'll be able to pick it up again soon and will share some progress.

"We are sure of this because Christ was raised from the dead, and he will never die again. Death no longer has any power over him. When he died, he died once to break the power of sin. But now that he lives, he lives for the glory of God. So you also should consider yourselves to be dead to the power of sin and alive to God through Christ Jesus."
~Romans 6:9-11

Blessings, Patti

Strawberry Season

2011-06-01T23:27:00.004-05:00

Strawberry Season has arrived!

Well, not the edible variety...

The strawberries in my garden patch are all green, but the velvet and wool kind are definitely ripe & ready!

The first of the month TDIPT Mercantile artists have updated their offerings - be sure to take a peek at all of the lovely summertime treats!

And click here to see more of my strawberry offerings.

Blessings, Patti

Memorial Day

2011-05-30T14:21:00.004-05:00

Bleeding hearts seem appropriate for today...

I finally finished the With Thy Needle and Thread "Soar" SAL.
It took me longer than usual to stitch, as my eyes are no longer used to stitching over one, especially on navy. I am happy with the results and hope to take it to the framers soon. I made a few little changes to make it "mine".

I stitched this up on a Memorial Day a few years back so that I would always have a poppy.

Paulette from Plum Street Samplers has designed a wonderful Memorial Day cross stitch design and is so kind to offer it as a freebie ~ be sure to take a peek here.

I wonder if I have enough time to start it today...

Blessings, Patti

Spring Cleaning Sale

2011-05-21T21:52:00.021-05:00

I really want to get my vegetable garden in and plant my annuals, too, but the weather just isn't cooperating. So I decided to try to unearth my crafting table as it is quite buried under supplies and kits. I realize that I can't possibly make it all and have decided that I must part with some of my treasures. In some cases, I found that I loved something so much that I bought it twice lol!

Take a peek and see if there is something that you can't live without ;)

Olde Colonial Designs A Little Thread Pallette
complete kit
Originally $29 On Sale for $17 plus shipping

Ewe & Eye & Friends Tiny Teacup Scissor Companion kit
Complete with chart, linen, floss, and scissors with sheath

Originally $24 On Sale for $15 plus shipping.

Bent Creek's Spring Snapperland

Patterns (incl. outside border), fabric, and snaps & buttons

Originally $35 On Sale for $15 plus shipping.

Please feel free to email me to request additional photos or to purchase. pgagliardi9@hotmail.com I will accept paypal only for Spring Cleaning items.

I'll include a freebie chart with each purchase :)

Thanks for taking the time to take a peek! *sigh* I still haven't unearthed my table yet.
Blessings, Patti

~Views~

2011-05-16T10:46:00.009-05:00

View from my dining room table:

"Geraniums"

Design by Maggie Bonanomi

for Country Sampler's Willows & Blooms Retreat

View from my Dining Room Window:

View from my living room loveseat:

"Spring!"

Design by Maggie Bonaomi

for Country Sampler Club

View from my front stoop:

View from my friend Cathy's dining room table during our monthly stitch club yesterday:
Isn't it lovely! She is so talented in such an array of mediums!!!

View from the train station platform at sunset:

"For he views the ends of the earth
and sees everything under the heavens.
When he established the force of the wind
and measured out the waters,
when he made a decree for the rain
and a path for the thunderstorm,
then he looked at wisdom and appraised it;
he confirmed it and tested it.
And he said to the human race,
“The fear of the Lord—that is wisdom,
and to shun evil is understanding.”
~Job 28:24-28

Wishing you lovely and inspiring views this week!

Blessings, Patti

Willows & Blooms

2011-05-06T23:08:00.014-05:00

Last weekend I spent a delightful time with a fabulous group of women at "Willows & Blooms" hosted by my favorite store in the world:

Country Sampler in Spring Green, Wisconsin

Day One was taught by the talented Linda Lautenschlager of Chessie & Me.
Our project was an unfinished reproduction antique sampler. Linda provided appropriate period motifs and taught us how to finish designing our sampler. How Fun! Linda now has a blog ~ be sure to visit her by clicking here.

Day Two was taught by the always amazing Maggie Bonanomi. Geraniums were the theme and the potted paper geraniums were such a great project ~ very different, fun and rewarding. And the wool applique geranium picture will be perfect for summer.

We even squeezed in a bit of time for a favorite antique store...

Treasures around every corner.

You never know what you will find and you must look up in the rafters, too.

I think that one of the best parts is spending time with women that have like interests and delight in the joy of creating. It definitely feeds my soul.

(My photo is missing our darling Pam who left a bit early. We missed you, Pam!)

We were also so lucky to get a few peeks of projects from Maggie's next book coming out in the fall and an autumn piece that Linda is designing. Oh my goodness! I can't wait for them to be released!!!

I was enjoying the company so much, that I didn't finish my wool picture as I usually do... (Instead my dear friend Kim was the overachiever at this workshop! Way to go Kim!)

Here is my progress:

Hopefully I'll be back soon with a finish!

At least my paper geraniums are completed and I am enjoying them thoroughly!

I wonder how they might look in red or pink? Hmmm...

Blessings, Patti

-> Happy May Day <-

2011-05-01T19:22:00.006-05:00

Wishing you a Happy May Day!

I hope that you found a basket of posies on your doorknob this morning :)

Today is also the first of the month update at TDIPT Mercantile.

Be sure to stop by and see all of the lovely offerings. I was a bit late updating my page as this weekend I was at Country Sampler's incredible Willows & Blooms needlework retreat.
I'll be back shortly to share all about our wonderful time.

Next month I'll be featuring my annual velvet strawberries on TDIPT Mercantile to celebrate strawberry season. Soon I'll be deciding on this year's unique spin...

Happy May Day!

Blessings, Patti

Easter Greetings!

2011-04-23T15:26:00.003-05:00

Christ is Risen!

He is Risen Indeed!

Wishing you and your family the heartfelt joy of the Easter Season!

Inspired by the Easter Greetings project by Maggie Bonanomi in Need'l Love's Easter Threads book, I created these little pots for table favors for Easter dinner.I hope that they like them.

Blessings to you, Patti

Outside my box

2011-04-22T10:20:00.008-05:00

"Easter Runner"

design by The Woolen Needle

Well, I stepped outside my usual color pallette with this piece and am so pleased with the results ~ bright, joyful Spring colors ~ just what I need!

I purchased this as a kit from Prairie Point Junction and am so happy with it! I ordered it on a Monday morning and had it in my hands Wednesday night! I love all the plaids ~ so perfect for Easter Eggs!

(Please ignore the wrinkles - I was so happy to complete it that I took photos before pressing...)

It is raining today as it seems to do every Good Friday ~ weather to fit the solemnity of the day. Hopefully we will have sunny warm weather to fit Easter Sunday!

On the back of every table mat that I keep, I add an antique ticking tag with my name, place it was stitched, and date. I also add something going on in my life or the world as I was making it.

Have you been watching the Raptor Research Project Eagles Nest on UStream? I am addicted! It is up on my computer almost 24 hours a day so that I can catch a glimpse whenever I walk by! It is just so facinating to have an eagle eye view of the hatching and growing of these three little eaglets. You can take a peek here. What a great way to celebrate this rainy Earth Day when I can't work outside.

Well, I better get going... I have Easter treats to bake and eggs to decorate. (and eagles to watch, too :)

Blessings, Patti

Inspired...

2011-04-12T11:54:00.010-05:00

It's amazing what a little sunshine and temps over 40 can do...

This weekend I cut back my perennials and planted lots of pansies.

I think the Vitamin D from the sun did its trick as I then went inside to do some creating and decorating...

These two Stacy Nash pieces from last spring are finally out and on display.

The very talented Vonna of The Twisted Stitcher has a finishing service which I used for the piece on the right - she did a lovely job!
I finished The Sampler Girl's Little Irish Sampler into a little pillow with rickrack around the edge.

and I finished these three cross stitch pieces that hopefully will become a sewing ensemble soon... I love the combination of soft yellows and grays.

And I pulled the wools for my next wool applique piece.

Definitely not my usual color palette, but the bright hopeful colors of spring have inspired me to break outside of my box...

Who knows where that will lead ;)

Blessings to all, Patti

A wonderful 48+ hours...

2011-04-07T23:10:00.009-05:00

There is hope that spring may finally be here!

Last weekend I made a quick trip to Galena IL with my stitching buddies.

I found these crocuses there and they made my heart smile.

We rented this lovely home for the weekend ~ lots of room for us to spread out our stitching projects.

On Saturday we took a road trip that led to 3 states - Wisconsin, Iowa and Illinois.

Our first stop was Yore in Gotham, Wisconsin. A lovely primitive shop that now stocks wonderful wools and yarns, too!

Then it was on to Country Sampler in Spring Green, Wisconsin. I was so excited to be there that I forgot to take photos :)

Finally it was on to Dubuque and the Cotton Cabin Quilt Shop and...

Willows - I love the ribbon on their basket on the front door.

I found so many lovely wools and patterns:

And this great Pansy prunes crate.

I plan to use the crate and this box on my work table to organize patterns. I found lots of tiny treasures and 3 great 48 star flags nailed to their wooden dowels. There's another piece of coverlet and ticking... a strawberry makedo... and a funky little bunny cookie cutter, too.

I love this heart shaped pan! Not sure whether I will hang it or place it, but the little scallops spoke to me.

I planned to show you what I was working on while there, but it is a gift and I realized that the recipient might read this... so it will have to wait.

It's amazing what you can pack into a weekend ;)

Blessings, Patti

April arrives...

2011-04-03T23:49:00.004-05:00

A new month arrives and with it new offerings on TDIPT Mercantile!

Be sure to stop by and see all the lovely creations.

You can click here to see more information on my little sheep pillows.

I took a quick trip this weekend with my stitch club. I had a wonderful time, but now am trying to play catch up with lots of laundry and getting ready for the week. It's back to work tomorrow and the boys return to school after their spring break.

I'll be back in a day or two to share pics from our trip and what I worked on while I was there.

Have a wonderful week!

Blessings, Patti

focus

2011-03-27T19:27:00.005-05:00

Maggie Bonanomi Egg

Lately I've been a bit overwhelmed.

It's busy season at my day job and I'm working lots of overtime.

My oldest son is a junior in high school and the college planning & tours are daunting.

I have a creative deadline approaching and just can't seem to get started.

My journal of creative ideas is chockful, but late each night as I try to prepare projects for my train ride, I can't seem to focus. I find myself spending time on the computer or watching mindless t.v. instead.

Rabbit Hill Primitive bunnies

I think part of it is the weather. Although the calendar says spring and the sun is occassionally shining, the temps aren't getting above freezing. It's been a long hard winter and I think if it would warm up a bit and I could get out for some fresh air and see some fresh shoots of life, my focus might come back...

Feedsack Eggs by Gatherings

So, to try and hurry things along, I did a little spring decorating this weekend.

It might not help the weather but it certainly helped my heart! "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." ~Matthew 6:34

Blessings, Patti

A few finishes...

2011-03-19T21:29:00.006-05:00

Spring Posy Bag

design by Maggie Bonanomi

Some weeks go by with nary a finish and others are more productive...

This Maggie Bonanomi design was from Country Sampler's Willows & Early Blooms retreat last spring. It is supposed to be a wearable purse in springtime colors, but as usual I couldn't help myself from making some changes... I always need a really big purse to carry all my "stuff" so I thought I would use it as a project bag instead. The original springtime colors of the design were very pretty, but I've been in a very monochromatic mood lately, so I changed it to shades of taupe (I hope that Maggie doesn't mind!)

The back needed a little something, so I added a little bunny & a flower to keep him company.

And on the inside I added another robin ~ seems like I put one on all my projects lately ;) I used a snap rather than a button and button hole to hurry things along.

I have to admit, I almost wished I owned a sewing machine to put this together, but I reminded myself that I hand sew so that I slow down, relax, and enjoy...

"To My Sweet"

Country Sampler Club Kit

by Stacy Nash

It's a little after Valentine's Day, but I finished this and am now ready for next year :)

"Little Irish Sampler"

by The Sampler Girl

Isn't this design sweet?! A perfect stitch for St. Patrick's Day. It is a very generous freebie design by Tanya of The Sampler Girl and you can find it here.
I can't decide how to finish it up ~ frame it? make a pillow? or a little needle and scissor book?

What do you think?

Enjoy the SuperMoon tonight ~ their won't be another full moon this close to earth for another 20 or so years. Unfortunately, here in Chicago it is obscured by clouds...

"O Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;

His steadfast love endures forever!"

~Psalm 118:1,29

Blessings, Patti

A few antiques for sale...

2011-03-12T14:49:00.011-06:00

I'm trying to unearth my craft table which is currently under a pile about 3 foot deep of treasures. In trying to organize, I'm realizing that I can't keep everything... So here are a few things that I think that I need to let go. I plan to list them on etsy, but thought I would put them out here first.

First up (above) is a piece of tan, khaki and red coverlet that I purchased on ebay. It measures 38 by 21 inches and has a few age spots. Price is $18 plus shipping.

Email me at pgagliardi9@hotmail.com, if interested.

I am happy to share more photos if you like...

Blessings, Patti

A Perfectly Primitive Weekend

2011-03-06T17:26:00.026-06:00

This weekend has been a blast!

In addition to starting a new Maggie Bonanomi design (above), I visited my parents in central Illinois and together we attend not one, but three perfectly primitive antique shows.

The first to open was Homesteaders on the Prairie in Arthur IL. They did a lovely job with the entrance and the anticipation climbed!

Once inside the entry tent, you were greeted by these wonderful flags and sweet bluegrass music...

I was thrilled to get to meet Lizzie Arakelian of Lizzie's Cabin. She writes the wonderful "A Simple Woman's Diary" in "A Simple Life" magazine. Everytime an issue arrives in my mailbox, the first thing that I do is flip to her diary and read it immediately!

I was hoping to meet Jill Peterson, who I admire so, but she was unable to attend. My mother and I each made some purchases and then it was on to our next show - Country Spirit in Arcola IL.

Here it was such a joy to meet Kristine Berg Doss, Jeremy Doss and Dan Weaver of "A Primitive Place" magazine. I felt like I knew them from their blogs and forums... How fun!

The evening was coming to a close, but I knew that there was more coming...

The next morning we attended The Gathering on the Prairie in Arthur IL

As soon as we walked in the show, a piece from across the room absolutely took my breath away:

I had to go look at it right away! Isn't this hooked rug absolutely stunning! The form and colors are out of this world! It was sold, although even if it wasn't I would not have been able to purchase it as the cost was astronomical. But I was so happy to be able to view it and the dealer was so kind to allow me to photograph it.

My absolute favorite booth was ___ (darn, of course now I have misplaced his card... As soon as I locate it I will add the name.)

Oh how I wish that I could have purchased everything in his booth!

The silhouettes, frakturs and calligraphy were simply stunning and he was so kind to allow photos.

My mom made a few purchases at the shows:

This beautiful antique basket is in beautiful shape and her new wooden bowl looks just great here.

I picked up a few coverlet pieces and my mind is whirling with ideas...

I also picked up a few baskets:

Can't wait to put the handled basket in an Easter vignette. And the tiny berry basket will be perfect for some antique strawberry emeries that I picked up...

I've collected sock darners for a while and have never seen one with printing on it before... The needles store inside the handle and can be shaken out through the tiny hole. Some day I'll have to share photos of some of my favorite sock darners...

I also couldn't resist this antique primitive wooden box and a few pieces of folk art. Two chicks and an egg from great old hemp fabric, a folk art bird and a chalkware rabbit.

Now the fun part ~ finding just the right place for each of my treasures. It snowed all the way home and the roads were pretty slick, but at least it is spring time in my heart and in my new treasures...

Things have been so hectic at home and work lately. This little getaway was just what I needed to recharge and get ready to face another hectic week.

I hope that each of you had a perfectly primitive weekend as well!

Blessings, Patti

Happy 4th Birthday TDIPT Mercantile!

2011-03-01T18:52:00.006-06:00

March has arrived and the artists at TDIPT Mercantile have updated their offerings.

This is a special month as we celebrate TDIPT's 4th Birthday!

And it is you who can receive the presents!

Stop by the TDIPT Mercantile Blog to see all the lovely gifts and learn how to win!

The more you purchase, the better your chance to win ;)

If you stop by my page, you'll see a spring time windowsill pillow

and several sweet needle books.

Be sure to take a look at all the other wonderful offerings as well!

I feel so blessed to be a part of this wonderful supportive group of artists!

Happy March to you!

Hopefully Spring is almost here!

Blessings, Patti

A Stitcher's Pocket

2011-02-26T12:38:00.009-06:00

"A Stitcher's Pocket"

design by Maggie Bonanomi

This is the piece that I was working on when I dropped my spool of thread on the train...

I've had this pattern for quite some time. When I was at Boxwood & Berries, several of the ladies were using these pockets and it inspired me to pull out the pattern.

The design wraps around to the back. I pulled out my small collection of bone and vegetable ivory buttons and added a few of my favorites. The outside of the pocket turned out so pretty that I decided to add a little design to the inside.

Can you tell by the robin that I am ready for spring?
I love robins, they are my favorite birds...

Last Sunday I hosted stitch club at my house.
My friend, Kim, just finished her very first quilt:

Isn't it just awesome! Way to go Kim!

I'll be back on March 1st with pictures of my newest offerings for TDIPT Mercantile - A spring windowsill pillow and three more cross stitched needlebooks.

By influence of the Light divine
Let thy own light to others shine.
Reflect all Heaven’s propitious ways
In ardent love, and cheerful praise.
~Thomas Ken

Blessings, Patti

p.s. Thank you for all of your sweet wishes for our dear Orion. He is completely healed and doesn't even remember to limp for attention anymore :)

Poor Pitiful Pooch

2011-02-21T10:37:00.005-06:00

Our sweet little Orion broke his dewclaw nail near the base while playing a favorite game with his ball. The vet had to remove the nail. Poor sweet baby! Of course I got him some special treats to make him feel better.

After about 24 hours, my husband pointed out that he only limped when we were watching and that he was doing it for our benefit. And you know what ~ it works :) my heart melts everytime!

As soon as the sun peeks out I'll be back with a few finishes...

Blessings, Patti

Another Lesson Learned...

2011-02-17T20:51:00.007-06:00

Many of you that know me or follow my blog know that I stitch a lot on my commute to downtown Chicago each day to my day job as an accountant.

Over the years I've learned many lessons about seed beads, needles and working with white velvet while in a black business suit. (Click to read about my lessons...)

Today I learned a new lesson...

Today I was working on a wool applique project. Pretty simple, no seed beads, no shedding velvet. Or so I thought...

I was deep in thought while listening to an audio book and sitting in my aisle seat. I had finished a thread and it was time to rethread my needle. I pulled out my trusty spool of thread and purposefully yanked a long strand of thread from the spool when the spool flew out of my hand! It started to roll down the aisle! I quickly leaned out my leg as far as I could to try to stop it with my foot. But instead I kicked it even further down the aisle!!! Yikes! I need that spool to keep me busy on the rest of my commute to work and all the way home!

I quickly tried to jump from my seat while balancing my briefcase, purse, gloves, iPod and wool applique supplies while scurrying down the aisle. Of course I also tried to look graceful and nonchalant, but am guessing that I failed miserably at both of those.

I wonder what all the non-crafting commuters think of my antics?

But alas, my spool was retrieved and is now clasped firmly whenever I need thread. I made progress on my piece and will hopefully have a finished project to share this weekend...

I wonder what other lessons I could avoid by just being a little more careful???

Blessings, Patti

A Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-13T23:01:00.009-06:00

Aren't these love birds beautiful?

The talented Mindy Raymond was so sweet to make them for me after I spent a bit of time coveting them from her wonderful blog ;)

The paper that she used is photocopies of her great great grandmother's journal ~ isn't that special?! Be sure to visit her blog ~ she is a prolific wool applique artist with a beautiful prim home!

I thought I would share a few of my Valentine decorations today...

Love the beautiful faded colors of these antique Valentines.

These are notecards made by the uber talented Lana Manis of Honeysuckle Lane and Simple Joys Paperie. I bought them a few years ago, with the intention of using them, but they are so beautiful, that I decided that I had to frame them and keep them for my very own...

I found this beautiful antique shirt cuff and incorporated it into my wool applique...

Sending each one of you love!

And wishing you a Happy Valentines Day!

Blessings, Patti

Work in Progress

2011-02-09T07:50:00.008-06:00

"Valentine Vase"

by Winding Vine Designs

Last post I showed you some wools that I was working with...

This is the finished piece.

I wanted to do a Valentine's Day wool applique, but couldn't find a pattern for what I was looking for... so I had to sketch out my own design :)

We've received about another 4 inches of snow since the blizzard and now are in a deep freeze for the week. Mostly we are below zero with highs in the single digits, so I needed something to warm my heart!

I received this great package in the mail from Country Sampler.

Maggie's new book, Stacy Nash's club kit and some great wools (love the striped wool on the far right!) and ribbons.

Maggie's Book of Days seems like a daunting project, but I am thinking of just working on one month at a time. (Do February now, and March in March, etc.) Then after a year it would be all done...

Now I have a quandry...

Do I keep working on this Heartstring Samplery piece?

Or do I start Stacy Nash's club kit in hopes of having it done for Valentine's Day?

Such tough decisions!

"Lead us to listen,

to hear the heart speak.

O God in the quiet voice

draw us to you."

~The Anointing by James Maher

Blessings, Patti

I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm!

2011-02-03T19:26:00.013-06:00

The morning after the Chicago blizzard, we opened our window shades to this view. Luckily we found that we had one window that was clear. Only to see that it was still storming... Throughout the blizzard we lost our t.v., phones and internet, but luckily although our lights flickered the power stayed on.

This is our backyard with a five foot wood privacy fence.
How deep could it get?

Finally the snow stopped.
When we tryed to get out to assess the damage, we realized that all our doors were stuck shut from large snow drifts. It took time and patience, but we were able to get our back door open. My youngest son toughed the trek to the garage for the shovels and shoveled his way back.

Orion, always the helper, ran out to help.

Where's your coat Orion???

My youngest son also tackled the climb up the mountain (front steps) to clear off the front door.

He rewarded himself with a dramatic jump!

Here is our side entrance still snowed in...

And when we opened our garage door, we were greeted by another wall of snow.

Here's Orion properly bundled up in his new winter coat.

Doesn't he look dashing?

I couldn't sleep at all the night of the storm between the thunder, the windows rattling, and all the funny sounds a house makes in gale force winds.

So instead I listened to news radio and stories of people trapped in their cars for hours and hours on end. (How blessed I was to be in my warm bed!) And I thought about a new wool project that I wanted to start on right away. I sketched it out in my head. And after all the shoveling and picture taking was done, I selected my wool colors. Hopefully I'll finish it and share it this weekend.

Thank you to all my wonderful TDIPT customers for your tremendous response.

I hope to deliver your packages to the post office on Saturday morning.

Can I fill those packages up with a little snow too?

"The snow is snowing,

the wind is blowing,

But I can weather the storm.

What do I care how much it may storm?

I've got my love to keep me warm."

~Irving Berlin

Blessings, Patti

February blows in with a Blizzard!

2011-02-01T19:33:00.008-06:00

The blizzard predicted for Chicago arrived right on time ~ 3:00 p.m.

I left the office at 4:00 to face gale force winds as I walked past the Trump Tower on my way to the train station. My 45 minute commute took 2 hours and 45 minutes. Every cloud has its silver lining, mine was plenty of stitching time on a warm train as the fearless workers tried to unfreeze the train track switches. Isn't it perfect that I am working on this beautiful piece from Heartstring Samplery? You can purchase her patterns here. I accomplished a lot on the big band of icicles.

I think that I am ready to put away this scissor fob for another year...

Enough snow already!

It's the first of the month and the TDIPT artists have updated their offerings.

There are many lovely items with a heart theme :)

This month I'm offering heart shaped pin books

And cross stitched needle cases (another Heartstring Samplery design...)

I'll keep you posted on how much snow we receive from this blizzard. The windows are rattling and the lights are flickering, so I know that the wind is still really blowing. They say that the heaviest snow will come in the middle of the night.

Stay warm and work on something that warms your heart.
That's what I will be doing ;)

Blessings, Patti

Baby, It's Cold Outside!

2011-01-21T22:46:00.008-06:00

You know it is really cold outside when the Chicago River is steaming!

It was below zero last night and our high was 9, not counting wind chills.

I think that it will be a good weekend to stay inside and finish some projects.

The TDIPT Mercantile February 1st update will be here before I know it.

I've started quite a few projects and I think I better start finishing some...

I can't think of anything better than stitching

and watching the Bears vs. Packers game on Sunday!

GO BEARS!!!

(Sorry to my Packer friends...)

“As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat,

summer and winter, day and night will never cease.”
Genesis 8:22

Stay warm this weekend!

Blessings, Patti

* Peace on Earth *

2011-01-19T22:54:00.012-06:00

"Peace on Earth"

Design by Pineberry Lane

"Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me.

Let there be peace on earth the peace that was meant to be."

~Sy Miller & Jill Jackson

This design was intended as a Christmas piece, but to me it is perfect for January - those quiet and peaceful monochromatic colors and the sentiment is always in season...

I decided to finish it as a sewing project book.

Inside the book there are plenty of places to store needles and pins (which I forgot to add before taking the photos.) And a nice big pocket for fabric, threads and scissors.

And I thought that I would add one last snowflake to the back for good measure.

It was a joy to create!

My pincushion got a workout this weekend...
I also had another finish:

"Let it Snow"
"Snowman"
designs by Maggie Bonanomi

More monochromatic tone on tone designs - I love this look for winter.

There is something about the simplicity of this design and subtle color changes that just make my heart sing!

"With God as our Father

Neighbors all are we.

Let us walk with each other

in perfect harmony."

~ Sy Miller & Jill Jackson

I've started about a half dozen Valentine projects for the February 1st TDIPT update.

I really need to focus and finish some rather than starting more :)

Wishing you each Peace on Earth!

Blessings, Patti

Is it wrong to love a snowman? :)

2011-01-14T18:35:00.010-06:00

Each year when I take down the Christmas decorations, I suffer from twinkle light withdrawals.

I love how clean the house looks, but can't quite put all the wintery decorations away...

So I leave out the non-Christmas snow globes with a few white lights and greenery...

and I leave out my vintage bottle brush trees for a little winterscape vignette.

And I leave out a few snowmen in wintery scenes.

This year I bought a snowman from Lori Brechlin of Notforgotten Farm.
When I saw him I was quite smitten and knew that I had to buy him for my own.
But when he arrived via the mailman and I had my first peek in person,
IT WAS LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT!

Pictures just don't do him justice. From his hogscraper base to his wool top hat he is perfectly prim and aged in just the right spots. I find myself moving him from room to room, telling myself that I am looking for the perfect spot for him. (Actually I think that I just like to have him near by...) So I must ask you... Is it wrong to love a snowman? I certainly hope not! Soon the first hints of spring might arrive and he just might melt away! So I will enjoy his company in the meantime...

Blessings, Patti

A winner?

2011-01-09T22:20:00.006-06:00

Niky of Niky's Creations recently sponsored a fun contest. She offered a free design and invited people to complete it and send photos to her. Then she randomly selected three finishes to win a prize.

I finished my rendition of "Evergreen" as a little needlebook.

I added a few wool squirrels to the inside for storing pins and needles.
I didn't win, but now that I think of it I did...

As I have this lovely needlecase to enjoy!

Be sure to stop by her blog to see the other finishes - wow! The creativity is just amazing!

Blessings, Patti

Welcome 1.1.11!

2011-01-01T10:55:00.008-06:00

It's January 1st and time for another update on TDIPT Mercantile!

You can view my offerings here.

"I found that snowflakes were masterpieces of design. No one design was
ever repeated. When a snowflake melted... just that much beauty was gone,
without leaving any record behind."
-Wilson A. Bentley

Snowflake Bentley and his innovative microscopic photographs of snowflakes were my inspiration this month.

I started with a vintage wool scarf and appliqued ivory wool snowflakes on it.

It can be used as a table runner or be worn as a scarf.

I also created another windowsill pillow based on a pattern by The Stitcherhood.
Please be sure to take a peek at all the lovely offerings at TDIPT Mercantile.

Did you enjoy your New Years Eve? We went to dinner with our friends then came back to our house and played "Imagine If" - we laughed until we cried - I love those kind of games - and those kind of friends ;)

They brought us these darling little bowls - aren't they just perfect? I just love them!!!

It is feeling more like winter in Chicago today - yesterday it was 59, today it is 29.

I think that I'll start taking down the Christmas decorations today... and putting up a few winter/snowflake decorations.

Wishing you all a Blessed 2011!

Blessings, Patti

!~Wishing you a Happy New Year!~!

2010-12-31T16:22:00.002-06:00

Wishing you a Happy New Year filled with blessings!

I'll be back tomorrow with new offerings on TDIPT Mercantile!

Please be safe with your celebrations tonight.

We will be go out for dinner tonight

then play games while waiting for the ball to drop ~ a family tradition...

Blessings, Patti

Merry Christmas from Chicago!

2010-12-25T22:14:00.012-06:00

Merry Christmas to all!

I am sorry that I have been MIA. I have been seriously under the weather with a horrible case of the flu - I had a fever that peaked at 102.7 and lasted for days.

Luckily the fever broke and I began to feel better just in time. We had a quiet Christmas Eve and hosted dinner for 25 today, Christmas Day. Our guests have gone home and I just wanted to share a bit Christmas from Chicago.

A few weeks back, we attended the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival Parade.

We were excited to see and hear Wilson Philips (above) and Crystal Bowersox (American Idol) perform in the parade.

I love those big balloons and would love to be a balloon handler some time...

I also visited the Christkindlmarket several times.

It always puts me in a happy holiday mood!

I'm always mesmerized by these paper stars, but have never bought one...

These gingerbread cookies are almost too pretty to eat :)

I did buy a new ornament for our tree - a dachshund of course, to celebrate Orion joining our family!

Please keep the reason for the season in your heart :)

"The shepherds went back to their fields and flocks, glorifying and
praising God for what the angels had told them, and because they had seen the
child, just as the angel had said."
-Luke 2:20

Blessings, Patti

Christmas Decor

2010-12-12T23:11:00.011-06:00

I've made a conscious effort this advent season to simplify the holiday, both in decor and gift giving. I wanted to focus more on the true meaning of the season.

It has helped a bit, but the holidays are still hectic and can't be as simplified as I'd like.

But I think that the simple decorations have helped to lend a sense of peace and calm.

I love the combination of rustic wood & wire, aged mercury glass, and tarnished glitter.

I've added lots of candles and in the interest of safety and forgetfulness, I've found that I really love the flameless candles ~ especially those with built in timers :)

The beautiful fabric box is a Stacy Nash project from last year's Boxwood & Berries. The sampler for inside the top of the lid is still not stitched, but I still love the box just as it is...

Some traditions had to stay and just couldn't be simplified, like our collection of nutcrackers.

I just found this great vintage Marshall Field's gift box that I couldn't pass up for 70 cents ~ it brings back lots of memories of visiting the store with my grandparents.

I'll try to post again soon with photos of Christmastime in Chicago.

"Good Tidings Mini Christmas Sampler"

design by Nancy Woodson

I did have one stitching finish during our winter storm this weekend.

This lovely design is a freebie and can be found here.

Wishing you a simplfied advent season!

Blessings, Patti

December is here!

2010-12-01T10:00:00.002-06:00

December is here and it is time to open that first little window of the advent calendar!

Christmas will soon be here!

The artists at TDIPT Mercantile have updated their offerings - be sure to go take a peek!

My offerings sold quickly - thank you so much for your support!!!

We are having our first snow of the season here in Chicago ~

it is swirling but not sticking to the ground ~

just enough to get me in the holiday spirit!

Blessings, Patti

One last turkey...

2010-11-28T23:04:00.006-06:00

"Turkey Turkey"

design by Maggie Bonanomi

Over the river and through the wood to Grandfather's house we go...

I know that most people have moved on to the beginning of the Advent Season, but I had to share one last turkey finish!

We visited my parents' home for the Thanksgiving holiday and I am so thankful to have found the time for this happy dance finish! Our oldest son is getting his driver's ed hours in and drove down and back! He's a great driver and it gave me over 6 hours of stitching time!!

I also picked this piece up from the framers...

Another Boxwood & Berries finish - design by Blackbird Designs.

I abbreviated the pattern and stitched my favorite parts. I added the name of my town and year as this piece now commemorates our home winning the town beautification award this summer for our landscaping and curb appeal :) - I was just thrilled!

And our dear sweet Orion joined us on our family Thanksgiving trip :)

He was a perfect traveling companion, but is not too fond of hotels.

I think that our entire extended family fell in love with him ;)

Well, now I will begin my Christmas decorating and will be back to share soon...

Blessings, Patti

Too Many Turkeys?

2010-11-24T13:44:00.009-06:00

Can a person have too many turkeys?

I think not.

I love turkeys, one of my favorite birds.

I do think that it is a little odd that I decorate with what I eat on the holiday, but they are so beautiful...

Obviously in my house Christmas doesn't go up until after Thanksgiving so that I can enjoy my turkeys to the utmost, before being packed away for another year.

Each year I add one to my collection - this year a wonderful redware piece by SJ Pottery.

I think that turkeys evoke an autumnal, homey feel ~ don't you?

I also had to share my favorite cd for the season.

This is the soundtrack of my life for the month of November.

I listen to it over and over and over and over...

I think that I drive the rest of the house nuts, but I find it truly relaxing.

Wishing you and your family a Wonderful Thanksgiving filled with family, friends and gratitude to our ever generous and merciful God.

Blessings, Patti

Thankful & a Winner!

2010-11-21T12:50:00.007-06:00

"Give Thanks"

design by Maggie Bonanomi

After seeing this completed by Mindy on her blog, Raymond Homestead, I had to be sure to complete it myself before Thanksgiving :)

It's been so much fun having a giveaway and reading everyone's comments. There were 49 entries. I've met some new people and haven't gotten to everyone's blog yet for a peek, but I will! Thank you all for your kind comments!

I'm not very tech savvy, so we had a randow drawing the old fashioned way.

And the winner is:

Diana!
Diana, I do not have your address, so please email me at pgagliardi9@hotmail.com by Wednesday, November 24th and I will put your prize package in the mail right away.
In case Diana doesn't respond, I will pick a new name on Thanksgiving.

Thank you all for participating, I wish that I had a prize for each of you!

Blessings, Patti

Thankful & a Giveaway

2010-11-15T21:19:00.010-06:00

"Bountiful Blessings"

Country Rustic Primitives

Sometimes I wonder why God has so richly blessed me...

I know that I don't deserve it.

Sure we have our trials and challenges.

But I have my dear husband, two wonderful sons, a fulfilling career and a home in a community where I have wanted to live since 8th grade.

What more could I possibly ask for?

So many bountiful blessings!

And this year we are thankful for the newest member of our family.

Orion has only lived with us for 3 months and we can't imagine life without him.

He is a blessing to each of us.

I am also so thankful for all of the friends that I have made through my blog, Etsy, and TDIPT Mercantile. I have enjoyed this journey and all the kindred souls more than I could have imagined.

To show my thankfulness, I'd like to offer a giveaway:

One of my white velvet pumpkins, two of my handmade leaves (a maple and an oak) and...

A complete Maggie Bonanomi kit!

I believe that this was a class from the Buggy Barn a few years back. I know that I will never get around to it and thought that someone else might appreciate it...

It is a complete kit that contains the ticking background, wools and pattern.

This is an inclusive giveaway ~ I hope that everyone that would like can enter :)

Just leave a comment on this post. If you are not comfortable leaving a comment, you can also send me an email at pgagliardi9@hotmail.com with "Winding Vine Giveaway" in the subject line.

I will be drawing a name next weekend and will get it in the mail right away so that hopefully you will have it in time to enjoy for Thanksgiving.

"And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.

Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts."

~Colossians 3:15 - 16

Blessings, Patti

A Perfect Autumn Day

2010-11-12T09:44:00.010-06:00

My vision of a perfect autumn day hasn't changed much since I was a child...

A sunny, crisp November Sunday.

Raking leaves outside with family.

While inside my favorite meal is cooking - pork roast with potato dumplings.

Somehow my sons didn't inherit my love for potato dumplings so we have added homemade cheese spaetzles to the perfect autumn meal.

I found these great pots of black petunias and autumn pansies last month.

I thought they were perfect for Halloween.

Despite a few hard frosts, they are still going strong.

After our delicious meal, I whipped up some brownies so that we could eat them warm and gooey while watching "The Amazing Race".

I love autumn and only one thing could complete this perfect autumn day...
A finish:

"Aw Nuts!" by Maggie Bonanomi

Country Sampler Club Kit

Maybe we will have another perfect autumn day this Sunday...

Wishing you a perfect autumn day.

Blessings, Patti

p.s. Stay tuned for a blog giveaway coming soon. Especially if you are Maggie Bonanomi fan like me ;)

~* Friday Finishes*~

2010-11-05T11:51:00.008-05:00

The talented Betty Dekat, designer of primitivebettys has a weekly blog feature of Friday Finishes, where she shows how others have completed her designs.

I thought that this week I would put my own spin on Friday finishes.

(I do have to mention that the acorn urn above is not yet finished so you are only seeing the "finished" bit of the corner ;)

Linda (UT), a dear online friend, shared this with me:

Linda has collected several of my "keys" over time and her dear husband made this fabulous key fob holder for her to display them! Isn't it the neatest thing???!!!

I just love it. She had seen it on Mothology, but it was out of stock, so her talented husband made it for her - now it's even more special knowing that it was made from the heart!

I was inspired this past week by Mindy of Raymond Homestead.

I love her blog and her prolific wool work, but this post had my brain whirling and me giggling...

Look at her wonderful creation inspired by a fallen branch!!!

I knew that I had to do this immediately, so I got Orion and his leash and immediately went for a long walk in search of a branch...

Luckily I found one and didn't need to start pruning a tree lol.

And here is my finish:

I thought that it was the perfect way to display my little collection of Schneeman Folk Art birds that had been scattered around my home.

I find myself now drawn to this little corner of the living room to glance at my tree and *smile*.
Mindy asked how my family felt when I dragged a dead branch into the house. I told her that I snuck it in when no one was home and I'm still waiting to see if anyone comments on it. So far no one has ~ I wonder if they are oblivious or they just think that I have lost it!

I'd love to hear about your Friday finishes - leave me a comment and let me know!

Blessings, Patti

A Colonial Christmas

2010-11-01T23:34:00.005-05:00

TDIPT Mercantile is celebrating a Christmas Open House.

Our theme this year is A Colonial Christmas.

We are celebrating with drawings for lovely creations by many of the TDIPT Mercantile artists. You can enter this wonderful drawing by signing up for the TDIPT newsletter. You'll receive an additional entry for each item that you purchase from TDIPT Mercantile before November 20th.

Thank you to the wonderful response to my offerings this month as I am sold out!

But be sure to see all the other artists wonderful offerings...

And be sure to take a peek at all the lovely items that are in the drawing by clicking here.

I sure wish that I could enter!

Blessings, Patti

Happy Halloween to you!

2010-10-30T23:47:00.005-05:00

Wishing you a Happy Halloween

with more treats than tricks!

The office building across the street from where I work had a pumpkin carving contest on Friday.

Here is my favorite:

Some people are so incredibly creative :)

Blessings, Patti

Boxwood and Berries ~ Day 4

2010-10-29T20:29:00.011-05:00

All too soon, the final day of our Boxwood & Berries retreat arrived.

Our project was this fun Advent Calendar by Maggie Bonanomi.

Then it was time for our group photo. What a talented group of fun women!

Carla (ND), a sweet classmate of ours, surprised each and every one of us with a thoughtful little gift:

A photo album that now stores all of my photographed memories!
Wasn't that so thoughtful of her? Thanks again Carla!

Then Maggie surprised us with one final project...

A handmade memory book for storing more memories from our wonderful retreat.
My mind starting spinning as I thought of the little needlework journal that Blackbird Designs had gifted to us. All retreat long, I had taken notes, journaled, collected email addresses, noted websites and shops in this little journal.

So I decided to make my little journal a summary of all of the wonderful designers from Boxwood & Berries: Blackbird's journal, Maggie's cover design and fabrics leftover from Stacy's projects.
The result:

My memory journal...

Including photos from my time in Spring Green,

Bringing back happy memories,

and new friends to treasure,

Wow! What an incredible time I had.

Thanks for staying with me for several weeks while I relived the joys and blessings of this trip!

I hope that each of you get to experience a similar inspiring retreat :)

Blessings, Patti

Winding Vine Wanderings

Words & a winner

This & that, A word & a giveaway

Another Winter Walk in the Woods...& items for sale

A Belated Happy New Year!

A few Christmas finishes

Christmas at Winding Vine

A finish & A winner!

An obsession & a giveaway

December arrives!

Still Thankful

Ever Thankful

We interrupt Thanksgiving for...

A Winner & more treasures

A weekend well spent...

A treasure & a giveaway

You're invited!

Happy Halloween!

Boxwood&Berries ~ Final Day

Boxwood&Berries~Day 3

Boxwood&Berries~Day 2

Boxwood & Berries~Day 1

Boxwood & Berries~on the way

I'm back with a winner

Boxwood & Berries ~ here I come...

A Thrill, an Honor and a Giveaway

Welcome October!

Hello Autumn!

And the winner is....

can't help myself

Arrangement in a Pewter Dish

Hope

I think that I found a way to share the TDIPT Etsy treasury - see below...

'TDIPT Mercantile on Etsy' by windingvinedesigns

Creations from the artists of TDIPT Mercantile

TDIPT on Etsy & a Giveaway!

Sweet September

Finish(es) & Winner(s)

*Seeking Opinions* & a mini giveaway...

This & That

You say it's your birthday!

A Summer Harvest

On tour...

What I have been working on...

Where I have been...

*Red*White*Blue*

*Shine*

Sunny Summer Solstice

A few finishes & fun for $5

In memoriam

Strawberry Season

Memorial Day

*Spring Cleaning Sale*

~Views~

Willows & Blooms

*-> Happy May Day <-*

***Easter Greetings!***

Outside my box

Inspired...

A wonderful 48+ hours...

April arrives...

focus

A few finishes...

A few antiques for sale...

A Perfectly Primitive Weekend

Happy 4th Birthday TDIPT Mercantile!

A Stitcher's Pocket

Poor Pitiful Pooch

Another Lesson Learned...

A Happy Valentine's Day!

Work in Progress

I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm!

February blows in with a Blizzard!

Baby, It's Cold Outside!

* Peace on Earth *

Is it wrong to love a snowman? :)

A winner?

Welcome 1.1.11!

!~Wishing you a Happy New Year!~!

Merry Christmas from Chicago!

Seeking Opinions & a mini giveaway...

RedWhiteBlue

Shine

Spring Cleaning Sale

-> Happy May Day <-

Easter Greetings!

A Perfect Autumn Day